CM Mamata says no to Bulldozer, Mandarmani hotels demolition halted

Mandarmani, a popular tourist destination in West Bengal, has found itself at the center of controversy after a district order directed the demolition of 140 hotels, lodges, and resorts. The order, passed by the National Green Tribunal (NGT), cited violations of Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) guidelines as the reason for the move. As the November 20 deadline for vacating the premises approaches, hotel owners and staff have been gripped by uncertainty and fear.

The issue took a political turn after Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee intervened, expressing her displeasure over the decision. According to sources from Nabanna (the state secretariat), Mamata Banerjee stated that “no bulldozer will run” and questioned the lack of communication with the Chief Secretary before such a significant order was issued. Her intervention has temporarily halted the demolition process.

The demolition order was issued by the District Committee of the Coastal Regulation Zone Management Authority on November 1. The East Medinipur District Magistrate, Purnendu Maji, had initiated steps to execute the order. The committee found that these establishments were built without proper approvals and violated environmental norms in the ecologically sensitive coastal areas of Mandarmani and its surroundings.

This sudden directive has caused widespread panic among hotel owners, many of whom rely on these establishments as their primary source of livelihood. “If these hotels are demolished, the tourism industry here will collapse, affecting thousands of families,” said a local hotel association representative.

The Chief Minister, emphasizing the importance of maintaining balance, said her government is looking into alternative solutions that respect both environmental regulations and the livelihoods of those dependent on the region's booming tourism industry. She indicated that further discussions will take place before any final action is taken.

Mandarmani, along with Digha and other coastal areas in Bengal, attracts thousands of tourists every year. The controversy has sparked concerns among tourists and stakeholders about the future of the area’s hospitality sector. The state government’s next steps are expected to be critical in resolving this crisis.